Wednesday, October 16, 2013

ABCD's October 8th Shut Down the Shutdown Rally

On Tuesday, Oct. 8, Action for Boston Community Development, a Boston’s anti-poverty agency, hosted a powerful press conference to address the impact that the federal government shutdown is having on Massachusetts' most vulnerable residents.

The event featured John MacPherson, an 87-year-old veteran who served our nation in WWII and who now relies on heating assistance to make ends meet on his limited income. According to MacPherson, if the shutdown isn't resolved to restore the home heating program, he could literally freeze this winter.

Also speaking at the event was Paola Garcia, who talked about how the shutdown is affecting her child's access to Head Start and her English as a Second Language class.

The personal stories these two shared represent countless others from across Massachusetts. From our youngest children to aging adults, the shutdown is impacting everyone.

John Drew, ABCD President/CEO, also reminded us that we can each help end the shutdown by using CAPWorks.org to reach out to friends and family around the country and let them know the importance of our programs and how important it is that we "shut down the shutdown" as soon as possible.

Also speaking at the event were Undersecretary of MA Housing & Community Development Aaron Gornstein; leaders from other nonprofits and associations representing Head Start, aging adults, and other community services; and representatives reading statements on behalf of Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Sen. Ed Markey, Rep. Michael Capuano, Rep. Stephen Lynch, and Gov. Deval Patrick.